North Carolina Central University is celebrating a significant School of Business upgrade thanks to a generous $200,000 donation from alumni Keith Haywood and Dr. Marilyn Sutton-Haywood. This important contribution will enhance the university’s Hospitality and Tourism Management program. to respect Haywoods contributionNCCU Business School Dining Room Keith J. and Drs. Marilyn calls it the Sutton-Haywood Dining Room.
Funding from Haywoods will support academic excellence and practical training opportunities for students entering the competitive field of hospitality management. This is in line with the initiative NCCU’s mission to provide transformative educational experiences that equip students with important industry-relevant skills.
Haywoods and NCCU
Class of 1977 graduate Keith Haywood has built a distinguished career in food service management as president and owner of FDY Inc. His extensive experience includes working with major corporations such as Marriott Management and Sodexo Management, where he spearheaded innovative initiatives. Throughout the Midwest, Mid-Atlantic and Southeast.
Dr. Marilyn Sutton-Haywood, who graduated in 1975, has devoted more than four decades to higher education. He has held distinguished academic and administrative positions at institutions such as Kennesaw State University, Bethune Cookman University, Johnson C. Smith University, and Shaw University.
Both Keith and Marilyn have remained closely involved with NCCU throughout their careers. They continue to serve as active members of the NCCU Alumni Association Inc.
“Our family is truly happy and proud to support student and faculty scholars at North Carolina Central University,” Haywoods said. “We hope to inspire students to become leaders and entrepreneurs in the fast-growing hospitality and tourism industry.”
This remarkable gift underscores the Haywoods’ commitment to advancing higher education. It also highlights the important role NCCU plays in shaping future professionals.
